Report: Commanders fire defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio after Cowboys blowout

As rumors fly about the job status of Commanders coach Ron Rivera, Washington fired defensive coordinator Jack del Rio.

Rivera issued a statement via social media Friday morning confirming earlier reports in regards to the terminations of Del Rio and defensive backs coach Brent Vieselmeyer.

The head coach said of his two assistants: “I appreciate all that they have contributed to the organization over the past four seasons and wish them all the best moving forward.”

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— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) November 24, 2023

New Commanders owner says he accepted Rivera’s recommendation for coaching changes

Josh Harris, the new owner of the Commanders, said that Rivera recommended the dismissal of the two coaches. He said he accepted Rivera’s decision and added that the fans deserved better.

“I feel exactly how our fans feel today: disappointed and frustrated,” Harris said in a statement to the media. “It’s how our players and staff feel as well. I knew our first season of ownership would include challenges along the way, and we will not shy away from hard work, nor will we be deterred by adversity.

“As Coach Rivera and I discussed, all of our energy for the remainder of the season will be focused on playing better, more consistent football and developing our players while intently evaluating the areas in which we need to improve this offseason. Our fans deserve a team that can compete with the NFL’s best and win sustainably over the long-term. I will not waver from that mission. Thank you to our fans for the ways in which you’ve breathed new life into our franchise. We have not been good enough this season, but our resolve for the future is unbroken.”

Meanwhile, ESPN reported that Rivera would take over the defensive play calling.

The Washington Post hinted that changes were coming, with a report suggesting no job was safe after the Commanders returned to home from Texas. Will firing Del Rio and the secondary coach be enough for Rivera to survive?

He answered questions about his job security Thursday in his post-game press conference.

“I’ve told you before, I’m not worried about it,” Rivera said of the rumors swirling about his job status. “I’m going to just do my job and see how things go. That’s the only thing I can do.”

Washington defense allowed 431 yards against Cowboys

Del Rio’s defense didn’t hold up very well against the Cowboys. The Commanders allowed 431 yards and five touchdowns. Plus, the rush barely impacted Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Washington defenders only hit him twice while he was back in the pocket.

Commanders defender tackle Jonathan Adam said no one, coaches or players, did their jobs against the Cowboys.

“At the end of the day, in the NFL you have to do your job,” Washington defensive tackle Jonathan Allen told reporters. “As players, we’re not getting the job done, and as coaches, we’re not getting the job done. I don’t think anyone’s getting the job done. So, for me, I’m looking at myself — what can I do to be better? What can I do to help these guys win? Everyone has to do that for themselves.”

Del Rio had worked in Washington for four seasons. The former NFL and USC star already served as head coach of both the Raiders and the Jaguars.